A recent study indicates that young people in the Netherlands are showing declining concern about climate change, accompanied by a decrease in sustainable practices. The fifth annual “Sustainable Thinking, Sustainable Doing” study by Ipsos I&O reveals a broader trend of reduced urgency regarding sustainability across the Dutch population, but it’s particularly evident among younger demographics.

In 2024, only 66% of Dutch individuals aged 18 to 24 expressed worry about the climate, a significant drop from 77% in 2023. This shift in focus is attributed to the prominence of other pressing issues, including international conflicts like the war in Gaza and the war in Ukraine, as well as domestic concerns such as the housing shortage and the potential return of Donald Trump to power.

The study, which surveyed 2,500 adult Dutch citizens, also found an increase in CO2 emissions among respondents, particularly driven by more frequent air travel among young people. Many young Dutch citizens feel constrained by a system that makes sustainable choices difficult and often more expensive than unsustainable alternatives.

This perceived lack of viable sustainable options fosters a sense of helplessness, with young people questioning the impact of their individual actions when others are not making similar efforts. The research also points to the influence of social media influencers and fast fashion platforms in promoting unsustainable consumption habits.